Introduction to Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a delightful twist on a classic festive treat, designed for those who want to savor the flavors of Christmas without the fuss of a traditional cake. This recipe combines the rich, spiced flavors of a traditional Christmas cake into a simple traybake format, making it accessible for young professionals or anyone pressed for time during the holiday season.
With its moist texture and a blend of dried fruits, glacé cherries, and marzipan, this cake is not just easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Imagine serving this cake at your next festive party, where its inviting aroma fills the room and sparks conversations around the table. And the best part? It can be prepared in under an hour!
For those looking to impress without the stress, this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is the perfect solution. It embodies the warmth and joy of the season while allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. So, why not whip up this delightful treat and share it with family and friends? You won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients
Unsalted Butter (225g)
Unsalted butter is the foundation of this traybake, providing moisture and a rich flavor that helps create a tender crumb. Softening it before mixing ensures a light and fluffy batter.
Light Brown Sugar (225g)
Light brown sugar adds a depth of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the cake. Its moisture content also helps keep the cake soft and delicious.
Eggs (4)
Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together, contributing to the cake’s structure and moisture. They also add richness and help achieve a lovely golden color.
Self-Raising Flour (225g)
This flour provides the necessary lift and lightness to the cake, thanks to its leavening agents. It’s perfect for achieving a fluffy texture without the need for additional baking powder.
Mixed Dried Fruit (100g)
A blend of dried fruits offers bursts of natural sweetness and chewy texture throughout the cake. These fruits are a classic addition, bringing holiday flavors to every bite.
Glacé Cherries (100g)
Halved glacé cherries add a festive pop of color and sweetness, making the cake visually appealing and enhancing its flavor profile with a fruity note.
Marzipan (100g)
Diced marzipan introduces a delicious almond flavor, complementing the spices and fruits beautifully. It adds a delightful chewiness that enhances the overall experience.
Chopped Almonds (50g)
Chopped almonds provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, which adds complexity to the cake. They also contribute to the festive feel of the dish.
Ground Nutmeg (1 tsp)
Ground nutmeg imparts warm, spicy notes that evoke the essence of Christmas. It pairs perfectly with the other spices, creating a comforting flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp)
Cinnamon adds sweetness and warmth, making it a quintessential spice in holiday baking. Its familiar aroma fills your kitchen, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Milk (1 tbsp)
A tablespoon of milk helps to create a smooth batter, ensuring all ingredients combine seamlessly. It adds moisture, contributing to the soft texture of the traybake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a delightful solution for those looking to enjoy the traditional flavors of a Christmas cake without the stress of intricate baking. This recipe is not only simple and quick, taking just under an hour to prepare and bake, but it also yields a moist and flavorful treat that is sure to impress at any festive gathering.
What makes this traybake truly exceptional is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite dried fruits or nuts, making it a personalized addition to your holiday dessert table. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing, allowing you to cut it into generous squares to serve family and friends. The combination of rich butter, warming spices, and fruity accents creates a comforting dessert that embodies the spirit of the season.
In just one bite, you’ll understand why this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a must-have for your Christmas celebrations. It offers a delicious, homemade touch that brings everyone together, making it the perfect centerpiece for festive occasions.
Variations
The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to personalize it according to your taste or dietary needs. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped almonds and replace them with extra dried fruit or seeds for added texture. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or rum to the batter, which can enhance the festive spirit of the cake.
Another delightful variation is to incorporate citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, into the mix. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the spices. You can also experiment with different dried fruits; swapping in apricots or cranberries can provide a unique flavor profile, making each traybake a new experience.
For those who enjoy icing, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice can add a lovely sheen and sweetness to the cake, while also providing a festive touch. Each of these variations allows you to create your own signature version of this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake, ensuring it becomes a staple in your holiday traditions.
Cooking Tips and Notes
Baking the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your results. First, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs, to create a smoother batter. This simple step helps achieve that light and fluffy texture we all love.
When mixing the batter, be gentle when folding in the flour and spices. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we want to avoid. As you stir in the mixed dried fruit, glacé cherries, marzipan, and almonds, feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences. If you love almonds, adding a bit more can enhance that delightful crunch.
Don’t forget to check the cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to pull it out when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain moisture and prevents the cake from becoming too dry.
Finally, consider adding a simple icing or dusting of powdered sugar on top for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your baking adventures!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake, the options are wonderfully versatile. This cake is delightful on its own, but a simple dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch. For those looking to elevate the presentation further, consider drizzling a light icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
Pairing the traybake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a comforting dessert experience that feels indulgent yet accessible. If you’re hosting a festive gathering, serving the cake alongside a selection of seasonal fruits, such as pomegranate seeds or mandarin slices, can add a burst of color and a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
For a cozy afternoon treat, enjoy a slice with a warm cup of spiced tea or mulled wine. This pairing not only complements the festive flavors of the cake but also enhances the overall holiday experience. Whether you’re enjoying it at a party or as a sweet treat at home, these serving suggestions will make your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake a memorable addition to any gathering.
Time Breakdown
When preparing the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake, keeping track of your time can make the process even smoother. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan your baking:
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking/Baking: 35 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
An efficiency tip: while the cake is baking, you can use that time to clean up your kitchen or prepare any additional decorations you might want to add, making the most of your time!
Nutritional Facts
The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is not just delicious but also offers a balanced treat for the festive season. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying option for dessert lovers. With 20g of sugar and 12g of fat, including healthy unsaturated fats, this cake provides a sweet indulgence without being overly rich. It also packs in 3g of protein and 1g of fiber, contributing to a wholesome snack.
This cake is perfect for sharing during gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy a festive dessert while keeping their dietary preferences in mind. With its mix of dried fruits and nuts, it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings joy to your holiday celebrations.
FAQ based on “People Also Ask” section
Can I make this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a week. This makes it a convenient option for busy holiday schedules, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors without the last-minute rush.
What can I substitute for marzipan in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a substitute for marzipan, you can use almond paste or even a simple homemade frosting made with ground almonds and sugar. This will still provide that lovely almond flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
How should I store the traybake?
Store the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil, making them easy to enjoy later.
Can I add more fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your traybake by adding extra dried fruits or nuts according to your taste. This flexibility allows you to create a cake that perfectly suits your holiday preferences.
Conclusion to Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is the perfect festive dessert that brings joy and warmth to any gathering. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also encapsulates the classic flavors of a traditional Christmas cake in a more accessible format. With its delightful combination of dried fruits, marzipan, and spices, this traybake is sure to impress friends and family alike.
As you enjoy this delicious treat, remember that it can be customized to suit your personal taste, whether by adding extra fruits or drizzling icing on top. This makes it a versatile choice for holiday celebrations. So gather your ingredients, whip up this scrumptious cake, and create memorable moments around the table. Don’t forget to save and share this recipe with others, spreading the joy of baking this festive season!
Print
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
Deliciously simple traybake version of a classic Christmas cake, perfect for festive gatherings.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g light brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 225g self-raising flour
- 100g mixed dried fruit
- 100g glacé cherries, halved
- 100g marzipan, diced
- 50g almonds, chopped
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gently fold in the flour, spices, and milk until the mixture is well combined.
- Stir in the dried fruit, cherries, marzipan, and almonds.
- Pour the mixture into a greased traybake tin and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Decorate as desired and serve.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Add a layer of icing for extra decoration.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg